Cawdor Castle: A Timeless Scottish Treasure
Cawdor Castle, located near Nairn in the Scottish Highlands, is one of Scotland’s most romantic and well-preserved castles. Famous for its connection to Shakespeare’s Macbeth, this historic fortress is a striking blend of medieval architecture and beautiful, well-tended gardens. Steeped in history, Cawdor Castle has been home to the Cawdor family for over 600 years and continues to be a family residence today. The castle, its gardens, and the surrounding woodland provide visitors with a captivating glimpse into Scotland’s storied past.
A Shakespearean Legend
Although Cawdor Castle is famously associated with Shakespeare’s Macbeth, the castle wasn’t built until the late 14th century, long after the historical Macbeth ruled Scotland. Shakespeare’s use of Cawdor in his play is more poetic than factual, but this hasn’t stopped visitors from being drawn to its rich historical and cultural significance. The castle’s real-life origins are no less fascinating, with the tower being built around a legendary thorn tree, which still remains in the castle’s cellar.
The Architecture and Interior
Cawdor Castle’s architecture is a blend of medieval fortification and later additions, which have transformed it into a comfortable family home. The 14th-century tower house is at the heart of the building, surrounded by additional wings and extensions that were added over the centuries. The interior is lavishly furnished with antique furniture, tapestries, fine art, and family heirlooms, providing a window into aristocratic life over the centuries.
Visitors can explore a number of the castle’s rooms, including the Drawing Room, which features a grand collection of portraits, and the Tapestry Bedroom, with its intricate tapestries that date back to the 17th century. The castle’s Old Kitchen offers a glimpse into the everyday workings of the estate in past centuries, with its original range and copper pans still on display.
Stunning Gardens and Woodland
Cawdor Castle is as famous for its gardens as it is for its rich history. The Walled Garden, originally designed in the 17th century, is one of the oldest features of the estate. It’s a peaceful haven filled with colourful flowers, towering hedges, and well-maintained lawns. The Flower Garden, with its vibrant array of blooms, adds to the beauty of the estate, while the Wild Garden, established in the early 20th century, offers a more naturalistic setting, with a mix of wildflowers and trees.
The Cawdor Woodlands surrounding the castle are a delightful area to explore, offering various walking trails that take visitors through ancient forests and alongside the nearby River Findhorn. The woodland is home to a wide variety of wildlife, adding an extra layer of tranquillity and natural beauty to the castle’s grounds.
A Living Castle
Unlike many castles in Scotland, Cawdor Castle remains a family home, lived in by the Dowager Countess Cawdor and her family. This sense of continuity and living history adds a unique charm to the castle, where the modern-day presence blends with its ancient past.
The castle is open to visitors during the summer months, offering guided tours, exhibitions, and access to its stunning gardens. The café and gift shop on site make it a perfect day out for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Scotland’s history and culture.
